REACH OUT TO JESUS

Known as the ‘Father of Contemporary Christian Music’, Ralph Carmichael was born in May 1927.  “What I have been doing most of my adult life,” he stated in 1986, “is waging a battle for the freedom and liberty to experiment with different kinds of music for the glory of God.”  Ralph sought guidance to use these musical forms…in good taste…to reach people with a Gospel message that never changes.

Trained for pastoral ministry like his father and many of his extended family, music had become his passion at a young age.  This passion was encouraged by his father.  He was captivated by the ‘chordal explosions’ he heard in music played on the radio and wanted to duplicate that in the church music of his day.  Needless to say, Carmichael initially came up against walls of non-acceptance and criticism.

In the world of secular music, Ralph became sought after to arrange for several performers such as Bing Crosby, Peggy Lee, Roger Williams and a long association with Nat King Cole.  Ralph’s song REACH OUT TO JESUS, was recorded by Elvis Presley. 

Several of his best-known songs illustrating his faith in God, were produced as part of some 20 movies he was invited to compose music scores for at the Billy Graham Evangelistic Associations affiliate called, "World Wide Pictures."

Ralph Carmichael passed away in October 2021.  In the end, his music became accepted, included in Hymn books and used to encourage many to discover Jesus Christ.  REACH OUT TO JESUS, still encourages many to reach out to Jesus because He loves them and is reaching out to them.